Well, my name is on the list to receive a new Vetrano 2B when they are in stock. I must be honest and say I don't know why I am spending so much money on an espresso machine when there is other things I would like to have.... like a new CookShack PG1000 pellet grill/smoker for my outdoor kitchen I am trying to build up. I guess the smoker will wait a while.

Anyway, here are some accessories I am considering. I am wondering how you guys that have a lot of experience would rate the need for these... useful or just another money wasting trinket? Interested to see your comments.... thanks!!

1) VST Basket (is there any real difference from a standard QM basket)

2) Bottomless portafilter ( I know I want this, but put it on the list anyway)

3) Precision Shower Screen (I have asked about this one already... seems there is not many that have tried it yet).

I have 1 and 2. Can confirm VST is an improvement over stock basket that came with my Rancilio Silvia. Love my bottomless portafilter - watching it is like coffeep0rn. :D

Will be buying 3 along with my Vetrano 2B. I figure if the VST showed an improvement, and the precision screen is the same sort of theory/mentality behind it (more even dispersion and pressure of water into the puck) then it can't be a bad thing, especially for $30.

Not buying #4.

I have a scale but honestly once I calibrated my Mini E, I don't use it. Don't use a timer. Using a yogurt cup for a funnel but just ordered an IPANEMA from OrphanEspresso. I have cups and matching saucers (espresso, capp and latte sizes) and demitasse spoons: adds a touch of class and my guests love it when I serve them from it. Knockbox is a must but I just bought a cheap Grindenstein, didn't bother with the nice stainless steel ones. Tamp mat is helpful. Will be getting a water test strips with my Vetrano when it ships. Also bought water filter/softener for the tank. Oh, Cafelat cleaner powder and a descaling solution. Coffeetool brush. Grinder brush. And a nice quality tamper. Those are my tools of the trade. Good luck!

really Sound advice. I am not trying to be flippant, but if you actually had the machine in hand and were actually diligently trying to make good espresso with it, I doubt you would be asking those questions. Only when you know your stock machine inside and out will you know what changes are better to you.

Your statement that you do not know why you are buying the machine gives me pause for concern. There are thousands on this forum that save their dollars and scrimp to upgrade. They know exactly why they are buying their machine: they love espresso and its art form.

There are several people on this forum who make great coffee, know their machines, their grinders and beans. their skill came from working at the basics, not from buying every new gadget. I aspire to be like them someday.

I applaud you for being honest about your doubts. Good espresso takes time, money and patience. not sure about what it takes to be a good pellet smoker.

Use stock for 6 months and you will know the answers yourself and you will not need the thermometer, IMHO it is a fluf accessorie. I wanted one when first starting but held off on buying one, now I am glad I don't have that big thing sticking out of my GH.

In real life, my name isWayne P.Anything I post is personal opinion and is only worth as much as anyone else's personal opinion. YMMV!

Have to second that. With my V2B I'll be getting at first only what I classify as "tools" (e.g., naked portafilter, knockbox, etc.), no "improvement items" yet.

This brings me to my big dilemma with the E61 temp gauge: on one hand, it may be considered as an important information device needed for proper brewing; but on the other hand I hope that once the correct temp offset is programmed into the PID -- the gauge will not be as necessary. And even more than that: it seriously violates the beauty and aesthetics of the machine in my opinion. For now, until I get to a point in the future where I feel that "I must know what's the exact E61 temp" -- I'm not installing it.

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